By Alserkal Avenue’s Blank Space initiative to support UAE creative collectives
A hub for artists and cultural practitioners in the UAE, Alserkal Avenue has launched Blank Space, an initiative to support local collectives. Opening up dialogue and making space for creative expression and collaboration, during this time of uncertainty, the initiative provides up to three UAE based collectives with temporary space, resources and visibility. With Blank Space, the Alserkal Avenue located in Al Quoz, Dubai, continues to champion emerging voices in the creative fields of design, craft, music and visual arts.
This plan will help creatives to grow their practice through peer and audience engagement, supporting the vision of Alserkal Avenue that has consistently provided artists with warehouse space in challenging times, allowing their work and projects to continue. “Blank Space came about as a response to the pressures that emerging creatives in the UAE are experiencing. The initiative is designed to encourage creative practitioners from different disciplines to come together and benefit from being part of an established creative infrastructure without the financial pressure of a physical space,” said Basmah El Bittar, Director of Alserkal Avenue.
Applications for Blank Space need to be submitted before 12 pm on April 10, 2026, via leasing@alserkal.online with the subject line “Blank Space Proposal – [name of collective]”. Proposals must be no more than 10 slides and should clearly outline:
· Details about the collective, its members and their practices
· The project concept and intended activities
· How the work will benefit the wider creative community
· How the space will be used (only minimal alterations to the space will be considered)
· A 4-week activation plan
· A public-facing element or programme to engage audiences and communities (for instance showcase, performance, screening, or open studio).
All proposals will be reviewed by the Alserkal Avenue team, and up to three selected collectives will be offered a warehouse in Alserkal Avenue for a period of four weeks with all utilities (water, electricity and WIFI) provided for, as well as selected materials and equipment outlined in the proposal, and marketing and communications support as necessary. For more information and updates regarding Blank Space, visit alserkal.online